Public and private sectors join forces to develop cosmetics ingredients from native biological resources

The National Institute of Biological Resources, under the Ministry of Climate, Environment and Energy, announced Tuesday that it will sign an MOU with Cosmecca Korea, a cosmetics research, development and manufacturing firm, at its main building in Seohaegu, Incheon, on Wednesday to develop and commercialize cosmetics ingredients derived from native biological resources.

The agreement is designed to promote the industrial application of research the institute has conducted on mass propagation of native plants, and to broaden awareness of the value of native biological resources.

Under the MOU, the institute plans to combine its in-house research capabilities in mass propagation of native biological resources with Cosmecca Korea's expertise in cosmetics ingredient development and manufacturing, with the goal of producing high-value cosmetics raw materials.

Key areas of cooperation include identifying new cosmetics ingredients derived from native biological resources, conducting technology research on sustainable use with biodiversity conservation in mind, developing industrial applications for native biological resources, and commercializing proprietary ingredients targeting the global cosmetics market. The two sides also plan to secure joint research outcomes — including patent applications — through the exchange of technology information.

"This collaboration will mark an important turning point in realizing the immense potential and eco-friendly value of our native biological resources in an industrial context," said Yoo Ho, director of the National Institute of Biological Resources. "By developing distinctive 'K-beauty' ingredients that can lead global markets, we will work to strengthen national biological sovereignty and drive future growth in the biotech industry."